As you know, UW Bothell has grown significantly in recent years, and there is every expectation that we will continue to grow to meet the student demand for the kind of education UW Bothell has become known for. I am particularly proud that this growth is serving so many first generation and diverse students from across this region and, indeed, around the world.

As our student population has grown, there is increasing need for institutional coordination of activities and initiatives that support students in building pathways for educational success from first through senior year. National research and benchmarking shows that lack of coordination can lead to issues of retention, timeliness to degree, lack of student engagement, and increased cost to both students and institutions.

To support the campus in addressing these and other issues relating to student persistence and success, I have created a new position to provide campus wide leadership to insure that all of our students are receiving the best support they can in achieving their educational goals.

I am extremely pleased to announce that Dr. Leslie Ashbaugh has agreed to serve as Assistant Vice Chancellor for Academic Achievement. In that capacity, Leslie will work closely with Schools, Admissions, Student Affairs, Libraries, and other campus units to foster pathways for student success and completion throughout their undergraduate experience. The knowledge and leadership experience that Leslie has gained as CUSP Director, combined with her deep experience in teaching UW Bothell students so successfully (winning a Distinguished Teaching Award in the process), make her an ideal choice for this role. I can think of no better champion for student learning.

I know that you will join me in congratulating Leslie in this new role.